Nataliia Shakhovska, Rector of 91Ƶ, participated in the discussion «Between Universities and Culture – Today and Tomorrow», which took place within the framework of the IV Culture Congress «CONNECTION_BREAKUP». Representatives of seven Ukrainian universities joined the discussion.
During the discussion, Nataliia Shakhovska shared her vision of the role of individuals, educational institutions, and participants in the educational process in the context of the major digital revolution, particularly the rapid development of artificial intelligence.
According to the Rector of our University, the task of society and educational institutions is to correctly explain the nature of new technologies to the younger generation.
– Artificial intelligence is not a substitute for labour and not a tool that creates new things. This is a tool that helps us analyze large amounts of data and structure knowledge. If you look at it this way, it is truly a great helper for development.
Nataliia Shakhovska also drew attention to the fact that the modern world is characterized by an excess of information, and this is where new technologies become necessary.
– Some time ago, we had several textbooks as the main source of knowledge. Today, there is an enormous amount of information, and the use of artificial intelligence to structure it helps all of us, – said the Rector.
Artificial intelligence, according to Nataliia Shakhovska, is also an element of culture and science diplomacy.
– This is an opportunity to tell the world about Ukraine, its universities, teachers, students and clearly outline its place on the map of Europe and the world, – added the Rector.
Another part of the discussion focused on reflecting on the experience of working towards obtaining the status of European Capital of Culture and the role of cooperation between academic institutions.
– Culture is how we interact with each other, how we interact with the environment and how we influence each other. And in this sense, we are already a cultural capital.
Comparing the Ukrainian experience with the European one, Nataliia Shakhovska emphasized that the war taught Ukrainians true empathy and sensitivity.
Returning to the topic of interaction between universities, the Rector emphasized that cooperation is already taking place and should not be perceived as a threat.
– Yes, we compete in some ways – for students, scientists, funding. But at the same time, we complement each other. Each university has its own culture, and constant interaction only enriches us all, – added Nataliia Shakhovska.
In conclusion, the Rector called for active cooperation:
– We need to form new cultural products and present them to the whole world. This is how the culture of universities affects the city, the country and the global world.
Photos – Vitalii Hrabar
